While appearing as a ‘talking head’ on news channels, as Nigel Farage does often, could be appealing, as could a slot on an existing light political show, like This Week.

However, the chance to have his name in lights, as well as having a Salmond-linked company handling production, was clearly too good to pass up.

Controversy

Russia Today, to give it its full title, doesn’t spend all day pushing relentlessly pro-Putin propaganda, but there remain clear editorial lines the channel won’t cross in terms of criticising the Kremlin.

The channel is owned and subsidised by the Russian Government, leading many critics to paint it as a mere mouthpiece for the regime.

Continuing reports about Human Rights abuses in Russia, especially regarding the LGBT community, make appearing on the channel a poisoned chalice for any politician.

In America, criticism of the channel is even more pronounced, especially given the accusations of Russian meddling in the Presidential election of last year.

RT was forced to formally register as the agent of a foreign government, sparking threats of a backlash from the Kremlin.

Criticism

Russia Today themselves rather charitably implied that the social media reaction was positive, while pro-independence newspaper The National called reaction ‘mixed’.

In truth, most bar the most fervent of online users were unhappy with the former First Minister’s decision, with even senior SNP figures querying his choice of channel.

His successor Nicola Sturgeon said: “Had I been asked, I would have advised against RT and suggested he seek a different channel to air what I’m sure will be an entertaining show.

SNP MEP Alyn Smith went even further last night, asking “What the f**k was he thinking?”

His erstwhile colleagues in journalism and broadcasting also expressed their shock and anger, with fellow LBC radio presenter Iain Dale slamming Mr Salmond’s ‘duplicity’ over launching the show.

Not all were opposed, suggesting divisions within the party.

MP Douglas Chapman tweeted: “Can you not see Alex Salmond is having a ball?”